Ever feel like deciding when to buy plane tickets is a bit of a gamble? Say no more. While finding the best time to book flights isn’t an exact science, we’ve analyzed the trends from our data so you can always be sure you know when to get a good travel deal on our website. Since we have unique contracts with our airline partners, our prices don’t rise in the same way that other websites do. On other travel websites, you should probably buy a good deal as soon as you see it. The same isn’t true for our flights!

But we get it. It’s complicated. We’re here to uncomplicate things for you. We’ve got a key to the best times to buy airline tickets for Christmas and snag cheap holiday flights, all based on thousands of pieces of data we’ve gathered.

Holiday Travel Deals in the US

For Christmas and other winter flights, domestic prices hold a bit more steady. September and October are great months to score cheap Christmas flights. If you have some flexibility with your departure date, it’s usually cheapest to leave on a Monday or a Tuesday. Think you don’t have any flexibility? Think again. You might be able to stay over in your college dorm a few extra nights. You can even ask a professor if you could take a final a day early so you can get a better fare. We know, we know, no one’s ready to take their finals early–but then you’ll be done with finals before all your friends and you can sometimes save over $100! A win-win, right?

Since you’re here, we’ll even tell you a secret: our best sales for cheap domestic flights are usually on Black Friday. If you can wait until then to book your holiday flights, you might be able to score an awesome last-minute travel deal!

Takeaway: The best time to book Christmas flights is sometime in early to mid fall, usually before Thanksgiving. Leave on a Monday or a Tuesday for the best deals.

Holiday Travel Deals for Europe

Ok, so maybe you’ve decided that instead of hanging out around home for your whole winter break, you’re actually going to check out the Christmas markets in Austria, go ice skating on the Eiffel Tower (it’s a real thing), or go skiing in the Alps. Even better, since winter is off-season for most European destinations, travel within each country tends to be cheaper too. Convinced yet? We thought so. But when’s the best time to book flights?

Prices tend to drop in September. Once October hits, fares start to rise and then skyrocket once November hits. Hate to say it, but a spontaneous Christmas trip to Europe is probably not your best buy. (Unless you’re looking on Cyber Monday, when we usually have our best international sales of the year. Wait at your own risk, though!) If you have any flexibility, try to leave on a Monday or Tuesday. You can sometimes save as much as $200 just by flying out on a different day!

Takeaway: Holiday flights to Europe tend to skyrocket in price once late October hits. The best time to book flights for Europe is in early fall for the best December travel deals.

Holiday Travel Deals for Asia

If you’re hoping to head to Asia, planning ahead can save you a ton of money. The best time to book winter flights to Asia is in September. Prices start dropping in late summer and are low through September. According to our data trends, prices usually start to rise in October and then shoot up in November. If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it’s often much cheaper to leave on Monday or Tuesday than on Friday or Saturday. Make sure to take advantage of our early bird and fall sales to snag a promo code and save even more on holiday flights to Asia!

Takeaway: The best time to book Christmas flights to Asia is in early fall before the end of October. Leave on Monday or Tuesday for the best deals.

FAQs

Should you only buy tickets on Tuesday? Are they cheaper if you buy in the middle of the night? When is the best day of the week to book flights? Will prices rise if you don’t search for tickets using an InPrivate browser?

There’s a lot of general advice floating around the Internet, but not all of it applies to our website! StudentUniverse has exclusive contracts with airline partners which not only allows us to offer you special pricing, but also means our price trends will vary compared to other booking sites. For example, booking date and time doesn’t really make a difference in pricing on StudentUniverse. Feel free to book on Tuesday morning, Friday at midnight or Sunday afternoon. We’ve got great prices all the time.

Some people swear by using InPrivate browsing to search for flights, but for StudentUniverse flights, feel free to just use your regular browser. The logic behind this rule is that many travel sites increase prices if you repeat searches. However, we don’t do this—and actually, we’ve even sometimes reduced the price of the flight if you search again. Our best advice? Don’t go incognito.

]]>Top 14 Best Gadgets and Apps for Students in 2019https://www.studentuniverse.com/blog/world-travel/top-14-best-gadgets-and-apps-for-students-in-2019?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-14-best-gadgets-and-apps-for-students-in-2019
Wed, 04 Sep 2019 18:25:54 +0000https://www.studentuniverse.com/blog/?p=16170

Make your semester's easier than ever with our favorite top gadgets and apps for students. From apps that'll find you cheap textbooks to portable international WiFi, these are the tech tools you can't live without.

Some apps and tools are obvious for the college student—a sturdy laptop, Google Calendar, a handful of flash drives—but what other apps and tech tools could be helping make your life easier this semester? We’ve rounded up 14 of our favorite gadgets and the best apps for students —some new, some not, all tried-and-tested—to give you a leg up this school year.

1. Skyroam Solis WiFi Hotspot

The ultimate tech must-have for students? WiFi. Whether you’re uploading pics of your latest adventures to Instagram or buckling down for a major study session, you need WiFi for pretty much all of it. Skyroam is making it easier than ever to get WiFi literally wherever you are with their pocket-sized WiFi hotspots. Get WiFi coverage in 130+ countries with flexible plans that give you WiFi whenever you need it (and never when you don’t). Plus, connect multiple devices to your hotspot. Travel often or need a WiFi upgrade? Try out the brand-new Skyroam Solis X, that also includes a charging power bank and can connect to 10 devices at once.

Thinking about snagging your own WiFi hotspot? We’ve got a discount for you—use code STUDENTU20 when checking out and get an extra 20% off Skyroam’s original Solis device.

2. Noise-cancelling headphones

Block out distractions with a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Whether it’s construction happening outside your dorm building while you’re trying to study for a big test or just someone chewing loudly on the other side of the library, noise-cancelling headphones can help you stay focused. While they can be quite pricey, Amazon has several great options for under $200.

3. Distraction-blocking apps

Speaking of blocking out distractions, getting an app for your phone or computer that blocks distracting websites can be a lifesaver when you have a 10-page paper due the next morning. Eliminate 2am Netflix binge sessions or endless scrolling through Instagram. Thankfully, there’s plenty of these apps to choose from. ColdTurkey is a great option, although they only have a Windows version right now. For Macs, try SelfControl.

4. Wunderlist

Wunderlist is the ultimate to-do app. This is honestly one of the best apps for students with too much on your to-do list! Organize all your to-do’s in one place, sort them into folders, set reminders and due dates, share them with group members or friends, add comments and discussions and, best of all, access them any time, on any device.

5. Evernote

There’s basically no notes app that does it all like Evernote. Capture and organize your notes, lists, projects and ideas in one space, search by keywords across all of your notebooks, share your notes with teammates or group members, save things from around the web or import your own screenshots, images and PDFs and access it all on any device.

Love Evernote already? Take it to the next level with Moleskine’s Evernote notebook—take notes on paper, snap a pic of them with the Evernote app, and it’ll automatically digitize them and add them to your Evernote. Plus, they’ll be searchable with the rest of your notes in Evernote.

6. Chegg Books

Tired of spending hundreds of dollars on textbooks every semester? One of the best apps for students is the Chegg app, where you can rent or buy books at a fraction of the cost. Plus, Chegg offers free returns within 3 weeks (perfect for if you switch classes or if a professor changes textbooks at the last minute) and free shipping for returning your rentals at the end of the semester. Have books to sell? Chegg will buy back your books, regardless of where you bought them.

7. Google Drive

If you’re not regularly backing up your work and your laptop, we’ll say it again for you: back. up. your. laptops. regularly! All it takes is one system crash or Microsoft Word reboot to lose an entire paper—or worse, an entire month or semester’s worth of assignments—and you’ll learn the hard way to keep your files backed up. Take it from us and keep things backed up on the reg. Google Drive is a great way to do so—you can create auto-backups, get loads of free storage space, can access all of your files from any device and can create and share documents right within the platform.

8. An external hard drive

Need a faster (and simpler) way to back up your computer besides uploading everything to Google Drive? A portable external hard drive is a must. Like we said, there’s nothing worse than losing a semester’s-worth of work in a computer malfunction. We like these affordable external hard drives that give you up to 4 TB (yeah, that’s tetrabytes) of space and will keep everything safe and secure.

9. Headspace

College can be stressful. Headspace can help you chill out. The free trial guides you through daily meditations and afterwards, you can purchase a monthly subscription to access the entire Headspace database. There’s meditations for sleeping, stress relief, running, to help you focus and more! Need five minutes to just give your brain a break? Headspace has your back.

10. Wolfram|Alpha

Whether you’re studying multivariable calculus, chemical reactions or statistics, work through calculations and get step-by-step solutions on Wolfram|Alpha. Get questions answered and perform computations, plus search their extensive knowledge base of pretty much any subject, from history to life sciences to astronomy.

11. Grubhub

Late-night study sesh or just have some serious munchies? Grubhub is a must for college students—it’ll help you get food delivered from local restaurants and cafes anytime. Whether you need a full meal or just a midnight ice cream sandwich, the Grubhub app’s got you covered. You can even order food in advance to be delivered at a certain time, so you’ll be all set for finals week cravings. Plus, you can get free delivery off your first two orders of $10+ for a limited time only with code STUDENTGF!

12. Battery-charging phone case (or portable charger)

Tired of hitting the dreaded 1% during busy days or off-campus exploring? Invest in a charging phone case that’ll keep your phone going as long as you do. You can find ultra-slim cases with battery chargers on Amazon for about $30, or just grab a pocket-sized portable charger that you can throw in your backpack. Either way, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power again.

13. Mint

Heading to college can mean handling your finances on your own for the first time—and being faced with more expenses than before. Mint is a super user-friendly app that’ll help you stay on top of what money is coming in and going out. Link it securely to cards and/or bank accounts and you’ll be able to track your spending, set up spending limits in different categories and get alerts if you’re over-budget.

Would this list really be complete if we forgot to add our own app to it? (The answer is no.) Search for cheap flights and hotels on the go with the Flights by StudentUniverse app. Now you can buy your next flights before you’re even back from vacation. Plus, access trip details on-the-go and get access to app-only sales and promo codes.

Whether you’re heading back to school or around the world, get access to all the best flight discounts at your fingertips.

When in Rome, do… as much of the free things to do as possible, right? Rome isn’t known for being a super budget-friendly destination, but that doesn’t mean you can’t see Rome on a student budget. Here’s 14 of our favorite free things to do in Rome!

Pro tip: Rome can be quite crowded, especially in the summer months and at popular tourists sights. Traveling to Rome in off-season or shoulder season (i.e. October through April) will be a much more peaceful (and often cheaper) experience. Also, visit popular landmarks early in the day to beat the rush!

1. Snap a selfie at the Colosseum.

If you don’t have a Colosseum selfie, did you even go to Rome? The answer is no, so head on over to the Colosseum and get snapping. Tickets to get into the Colosseum are 12 euros (and well worth it!) and there are plenty of guided tours available as well. But even if you only walk around the outside, it’s absolutely a can’t-miss stop.

2. See the Trevi Fountain.

One of the most famous landmarks in Rome is totally free—well, unless you want to throw a 10-cent euro in the fountain of course. Legend has it that anyone who throws a euro into the fountain (10 cents is the traditional amount) backwards over their left shoulder will definitely return to Rome again. Want to ensure a return trip? Make sure you don’t miss out on the Trevi.

3. Walk up the Spanish Steps.

Although recent changes in city laws now prevent people from sitting on the Spanish steps, you can still walk up and down them and take in the stunning staircase. (The view of the sunset from the top of the stairs is particularly good.)

4. People-watch in the Piazza Navona.

The Piazza Navona is one of the most famous and popular piazzas in Rome, known for the fountains, palaces and churches that surround it. Grab a cappuccino or a croissant from one of the cafes around the piazza, then stroll around to admire the famous fountains. Or take a break and enjoy watching the people walk by.

5. Be awed at St. Peter’s Basilica.

One of the largest and arguably most stunning basilicas in the world is right here in Rome and shouldn’t be missed! Two things to note: the dress code is strictly enforced (long pants for guys, long pants/skirts for girls and no bare shoulders) and the lines to get in can be quite long. We recommend you plan to get to St. Peter’s by 8-9am to beat the lines and the crowds. Although you can also purchase fast-track tickets to skip the line at any time of day. You can also climb to the very top of St. Peter’s Dome, to be rewarded with 360° views of Rome. It’s 8 euros, but it’s a stunning sight and is definitely worth it.

6. Visit each of the Seven Hills of Rome.

Rome is built around seven hills, where the ancient city was originally built. Each of these seven hills is now home to ancient monuments or parks, all worth seeing! Aventine Hill has the secret keyhole that looks out to St. Peter’s basilica, Capitoline Hill is home to the Capitoline Museums and Palatine Hill holds an archaeological area (and is supposedly where Romulus and Remus were born). The Gianicolo Hill (not one of the OG hills, but was built up later) has some of the best sunset viewing spots in the whole city.

7. Get lost in some of Rome’s smaller neighborhoods.

Rome is endlessly walkable and filled with tons of smaller neighborhoods and districts to explore that won’t be as crowded as the city center. Trastevere is a whimsical and perfectly picturesque place to explore—stroll through the cobblestone streets, enjoy a quick cup of coffee or some gelato and listen to street performers. Monti, Aventine and the Jewish Ghetto are three more you should see.

8. See the Pantheon.

Another famous Roman landmark, the Pantheon is an ancient Roman temple that was completed around 125 AD. (Yes, it’s almost 2,000 years old, and yes, it’s still standing.) The hole at the top of the ceiling dome was originally the only source of light and still provides a unique glance at ancient Roman architecture.

9. Peek into the Roman Forum.

Want to see some Roman ruins from 2,000 years ago? Located right next to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was one of the centerpoints of business, politics and religious happenings and activities in ancient Rome. So besides holding a ton of history, the ruins are actually beautiful in their own way, too. Although it costs 12 euros to actually enter the forum and walk around, you can see much of it from the outside.

10. Picnic in the Villa Borghese Gardens.

The Villa Borghese Gardens are some of the largest public gardens in Rome, and they’re totally free. If you need a stunning place for a walk or an afternoon picnic, there’s almost 200 acres of parks, lakes and gardens to explore.

11. Take a free walking tour.

Many cities now have free walking tours you can take. These walking tours are a great way to get familiar with the city and learn a bit more about the history and culture of a new place. The Rome Free Walking Tours are a good option, happening every day at 10am and 4pm, starting from the Spanish steps.

12. Peek through the secret keyhole on Aventine Hill.

One of the most off-the-beaten-path things to do in Rome lies within a secret keyhole. The keyhole, located on a doorway that belongs to the Knights of Malta, looks through a tree-lined garden walkway that perfectly frames the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. There’s plenty of legends about the keyhole and Aventine Hill (where it’s located), but you can see it for yourself at the intersection of via di S. Sabina and via di Porta Lavernale.

13. Snap some pics on one of Rome’s many famous bridges.

As if Rome isn’t photogenic enough already, the iconic (and historic!) bridges crossing the River Tiber at various points are definitely worth your attention. The St. Angelo Bridge is one of the most famous—like many things in Rome, it’s almost 2,000 years old, and it provides picture-perfect views of St. Peter’s basilica and St. Angelo’s castle. Visit it at night or sunset for the most magical views!

14. Visit the Vatican.

Ok, so it’s only free on the last Sunday of the month, but it’s definitely worth a visit if it coincides with your trip dates. (Even if it doesn’t, it’s worth it to pay, but we digress…) This is the perfect chance to see the Sistine Chapel, tons of Renaissance art and St. Peter’s Cathedral for free. Keep in mind it’ll be crowded, so plan to get there early!

Do you ever hold yourself back from traveling because you don’t want to leave your dog at home? Take a look at these 10 dog-friendly vacation spots in the US so that you can take your dog with you on whatever your next adventure is! With cheap domestic flights sales happening all the time, why not get ready to plan your next trip?

1. Key West, Florida

Ready to hit the beach with your dog? Head to Key West and get lost in the waves. This town is known for being dog-friendly and is definitely worth a visit. Key West Dog Beach is a great place to go to let your pupper run free. There are a number of other beaches in Key West that are also dog-friendly. Wherever you choose to go, you (and your pup!) will enjoy catching some rays in the sand. The Key West Aquarium is also dog-friendly and a good place to take a break from a long day of fun in the sun. Key West is a haven for dogs and their owners, so don’t miss out on your chance to experience this top vacation spot.

2. Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid is located in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York and is a great dog-friendly vacation spot. There are plenty of dog-friendly activities including hiking and biking trails, fishing and numerous swimming spots. There are a number of dog-friendly hotels and inns in the area, too. One of our faves is the Lake Placid Lounge which is the perfect spot to wake up to views of the gorgeous lake and scenery.

3. Austin, Texas

If you’re looking for a warm place full of culture and art, Austin is the perfect spot for you and your pup! There’s plenty of things to do and see around the capital of Texas that are all dog-friendly. If you’re looking to spend some time with your dog in the park, head to Zilker Park located just south of downtown. This 350-acre park has a dog-friendly pool and plenty of space for a game of fetch. There is even a dog-themed boutique called Lofty Dog that holds pedicure events for you and your dog! After getting a doggy pedicure, head to The Domain, a dog-friendly downtown shopping area so you don’t have to worry about leaving your dog outside while you shop.

4. The Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is a beautiful stretch of islands off the coast of North Carolina. It’s the perfect spot for you and your puppy to take a run on the beach and explore the state parks. Many of the beaches along the Outer Banks make for great dog-friendly vacation spots. Plus, there’s plenty of restaurants and shops along the beach that offer amazing views of the white sand beaches. Even better? Take a trip to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for birds-eye views of the shore.

5. Lake Tahoe, California

Want a day spent at the lake? We’ve got the perfect place for you and your dog: Lake Tahoe. Located on the border between California and Nevada, this lake is a great place to go on an adventure with your dog if you love the outdoors. You can go swimming, kayaking, hiking and even spend the night in a dog-friendly hotel. If you and your pup are tired from a long day of playing at the lake, take a gondola car up to the top of a mountain so that you can hike your way down. Hungry? Check out one of our favorite places to eat, Meyer’s Downtown Cafe.

6. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Craving some warm desert weather? Head to Albuquerque for a getaway like no other. The Albuquerque International Balloon Festival is held each October and is a must-see. Hungry? The Grove Cafe and Market is known by locals as one of the best places to go for breakfast. Besides that, there are plenty of dog parks including Los Altos Park right in the heart of the city. If you’re craving coffee in the late afternoon, head to Flying Star Cafe Juan Tabo and grab a free dog treat as well!

7. Block Island, Rhode Island

Want to settle into a classic New England beach town? Head to Block Island, a beautiful spot right off the coast of Rhode Island for some rest and relaxation with your dog. Sandy beaches and lighthouses make this a classic vacation destination and the perfect spot for your pup to roam around with you. Head to Montauk Point Lighthouse for beautiful views of the ocean along with the hiking trails surrounding it. If you’re staying in the area for awhile, make sure you check you and your furry friend into The Blue Dory Inn—it’s right on the ocean and also pet-friendly.

8. Bar Harbor, Maine

Maine is a great idea because there’s tons of dog-friendly vacation spots in Maine.Not sure where to start? We recommend Bar Harbor! This town is located on Mount Desert Island right along Maine’s Frenchman Bay. It borders Acadia National Park which is the ideal spot to bring your furry best friend for a hike. Although you have to keep a leash on your dog at the park, you can find ponds within the park with designated leash-free areas. There are also a number of dog friendly restaurants and hotels in Bar Harbor, so you don’t have to worry about leaving your dog behind while you explore this gorgeous seaside town.

9. Grayling, Michigan

A great place for dogs to roam free! Almost 3/4 of the county is owned by the government which means that there are plenty of parks, open fields and trails to visit while on vacation. Grayling, Michigan is also fun in the winter because of all the opportunities to go snowshoeing with your pup. Head to North Higgins Lake State Park for hiking and then grab lunch at Paddle Hard Brewing—a dog-friendly restaurant and brewery.

10. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket is a tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod and is popular summer travel destination. There are plenty of shops and restaurants lining the cobblestone streets. Even better, people from all over travel here and bring their dogs to this small beach town. Head to Francis Street Beach if you’re looking to spend some time cooling off in the ocean with your puppy. Walk along the shoreline and you’ll discover lighthouses and sailboats lining the coast. Or take a trip to Cisco Brewers and tour the brewery—dogs are welcome here too!

There’s so many places to go in the US that are dog-friendly. Thinking of traveling with your dog? Check out our latest hotel deals so you can find a dog-friendly hotel that you and your furry friend can enjoy together!

Wondering how to find the best cheap flights? We get it. With the ever-changing flight prices, choosing between different airlines, knowing which airports to fly into and deciding when to book, it can get confusing (and overwhelming) pretty fast.

Lucky for you, that’s where we come in. We’ll let you in on our best secrets for finding the best flight deals. Looking for the best place to find cheap airfare? Wondering when the best time to travel is? How far in advance should you buy your tickets to get the best deal? We’re here to answer all your questions about how to find cheap plane tickets!

Be flexible!

We really can’t stress this one enough. Maybe you already know that you really want to go to Paris, for example, or you have to travel during certain dates over Thanksgiving break. Whatever flexibility you do have, use it to your advantage. Flexibility can be more than just dates and destinations! (Although if you do have any flexibility with your dates, use the flexible search feature—toggle the search to “flexible” instead of “exact” and your search will show results for nearby dates that might be cheaper.) Also think about what flexibility you might have in terms of:

your departure airport (are there other nearby airports that might have cheaper flights?)

your arrival airport

when you travel (travel during shoulder season for the best rates!)

which day of the week you leave on (some routes are more expensive on certain days of the week)

where you go

which airline you fly (some budget airlines offer major deals!)

when you book your tickets (booking tickets in advance or during a sale can pay off big-time)

Location, location, location.

Many major cities have several airports—a large international airport and smaller, regional ones (London has four!). When you’re looking for tickets, check into any airports in the area. Sometimes smaller airports have cheaper flights. On the other hand, if you live near a small airport, sometimes larger airports (i.e. flying out of LAX instead of San Diego) can have cheaper fares. This is especially true for international flights, since bigger airports tend to have more routes.

Timing is everything.

It can be hard to predict when to buy your flights. Generally, the more distance you’ll be traveling, the further in advance you’ll want to buy your tickets. If you’re traveling from the US to Asia or the South Pacific, plan to purchase several months in advance. Otherwise, about 6-8 weeks in advance is a good rule of thumb for international flights and 3-6 weeks for domestic flights.

Try to fly out mid-week if you can—leaving on a Tuesday or Wednesday is usually cheaper than leaving on a weekend. Booking red-eye flights (overnight flights) are often cheaper than booking flights during more “desirable” travel times during the day. Start looking early so you can jump on it when you find cheap flights. If you happen to have procrastinated a biiiit too long on buying your tickets, no worries—we often have the best deals around on last-minute tickets.

Do your research.

Buying plane tickets is like buying textbooks or a new phone: before you commit to purchasing, you should check different websites to see what the general going rate is. Double-check the details: do you need to pay extra for baggage? Is there enough time for your layover? Start looking for your tickets before you need to purchase so you have enough time to watch for a good deal. Keep your eyes peeled for promo codes or sales, too—it can save you a ton of cash!

Watch for a sale.

Speaking of sales, StudentUniverse has sales year-round on top of already discounted tickets. Watch for sales during Black Friday and Cyber Monday (some of our cheapest flights ever were found on these days), around the start of the semester, before holidays and flash sales throughout the year. Some of our promo codes are limited to a specific route or destination, while others are good for any ticket on our website. Of course, joining our email list is a great way to get notified of deals, sales and special offers! Keep an eye on our promo code page too.

Know the baggage and cancellation policies.

Different airlines and tickets have different policies. Sometimes you can find really cheap flights on a budget airline, but you have to pay to check bags. If you don’t have any bags to check, it’s a great option! If you do though, factor those fees into your plans. Same rule applies to cancellation policies: if you know you won’t need to change your ticket, save money and buy a non-refundable ticket. If you’re not sure though, double-check the policies.

Use airline miles.

It definitely helps to join frequent flier programs with your favorite airlines—you’ll earn free miles every time you fly! Even when you book your flights through StudentUniverse, you can still earn points with the airlines. And while it might take some time to earn enough points to get a free flight (especially if you don’t travel on the same airline frequently), on some airlines you can often use your points for other travel-related expenses too, such as upgrading your seat or paying for snacks on the plane.

Follow social media.

Following your favorite airlines (and StudentUniverse, of course!) on social media is a great way to keep an eye on cheap flights deals and flash sales. We post about our best deals, flash sales, promo codes and more on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Plus, we usually host contests and giveaways on social media, too. That means cheap flights can easily turn into free flights. Start following so you won’t miss out on a sale that could save you a ton on your tickets!

Consider booking two one-way tickets instead of roundtrip.

It’s counter-intuitive but true: sometimes two one-way tickets can be cheaper than a single roundtrip ticket. This is especially true if you’ll be visiting multiple destinations. Buying two one-way tickets can also eliminate the hassle of trying to get back to your original destination again just to fly home. Using the “Multi-City” option is also a great way to search for tickets when your trip has several destinations.

Know that sometimes the rules don’t apply.

In the process of finding a cheap airline ticket, “rules” are really more like guidelines. They’re what usually holds true. However, is it also true that sometimes you can score amazing deals at the last-minute, even on international ticket? Yup. Usually it’s cheapest to leave mid-week, but sometimes leaving on a Friday night is the cheapest option. Sometimes larger airports have the best deals and sometimes it’s the smaller ones. All that to say: take this advice as how things typically work. But if you see an amazing deal, snag it!

Ready to score a great deal? Check out what current flight deals we have going on right now. Be sure to look at our promo codes too to see if you can save even more.

Traveling abroad can be a life-changing experience. After all, it’s not every day that you get to experience the cultures and customs of another country. When you get the chance, you need to take advantage of every opportunity. However, it’s important to be prepared for any and all circumstances when in a foreign country, especially when it comes to dating. If you’re looking to date abroad, here are some tips that will ensure you’re well-prepared for a smooth and safe dating experience.

1. Prep your self-confidence

If you lack self-confidence, you might not be mentally prepared to date. Physical insecurities like acne or thinning hair can tarnish your body image and distract you from a smooth and enjoyable date. When physical insecurities start to get the best of you, try accepting and embracing them by working toward self-love through practices like journaling, meditation, or therapy. If self-love practices alone still leave you feeling a bit hesitant, you can talk to a doctor about ways to manage your insecurities. Accepting, embracing, and addressing your anxieties– whatever they may be– will help you gain the courage and motivation to get to know some amazing new people.

2. Study the language and culture beforehand

It can help to have some knowledge of another country’s slang and customs before going on dates to avoid any verbal and nonverbal miscommunications. For example, the word “home” means mold in Finland and man in Catalan. Perhaps more shockingly, the English word “kiss” means something entirely different in Sweden… urine. Yikes. Nonverbal cues can also mislead your date: waving your hand to call someone closer to you can be considered offensive in some cultures. Small acts can make a big difference on a date abroad, so familiarize yourself with the customs to prevent giving someone the wrong message or turning them away unintentionally.

3. Fill in a friend

Whether you’re traveling solo in a new country or have tons of friends from a study abroad program, someone should always know where you’re going before a date. While it may not be likely that something bad would happen, it doesn’t hurt to be cautious! Fill someone in on all the details surrounding your date. Tell a friend or family member where you’re going and at what time. You can also send them a picture of your date so they’re familiar with who you’re going to meet. If you have a smartphone, you can also share your location with a relative or friend close by who could help if you ever feel the need to leave suddenly. Get in this habit before all of your dates to ensure the safest experience possible.

4. Do your research

People often joke about the concept of “Facebook stalking”, but in the case of dating abroad, it is seriously recommended. If you schedule a date with someone you met on a dating app and you don’t know much about them, do some research. Find out as much information as you can about them. That way, you can determine whether you’re interested and if it’s a good idea to go on a date in the first place. A simple Google search could give you a lot of important information, as would a read-through of their social media profiles. Look for social media red flags like questionable photos or aggressive status updates. Then use your best judgement!

5. Don’t ignore the red flags in person

If you’re a person who likes to see the good in someone, you might need a little push when it comes to being cautious. Even if you’re vigilant for red flags, some can be subtle and hard to catch on a date. For example, if your date is talking about themselves the majority of the time, you might be dealing with a narcissist. This could make for a troublesome relationship. Similarly, first date mistakes, like having too many drinks or treating the staff at a restaurant poorly, can indicate inappropriate behavior or personality traits. Keep an open mind, but if you notice any patterns, don’t look the other way. It’s okay to be picky and put yourself first.

Dating abroad can be an exhilarating journey. Just make sure that you’re having fun and staying safe. Stay confident, mind the cultural differences and be patient! Getting to know people with different life experiences can be an awesome opportunity. Make memories and stay safe!

San Francisco may have a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the US, but it’s absolutely worth the trip! From iconic California sights to ocean views and tons of amazing food, San Francisco is a bucket-list destination for sure. Even better, you can definitely explore SF on a budget. You just have to know where to go! Thankfully, we’ve got a few ideas for you.

Keep reading for 11 of our favorite free things to do in San Francisco.

1. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge.

Did you even go to San Francisco if you haven’t seen the Golden Gate? Drive, walk or bike across the bridge for a quintessential San Fran experience. You can also just hang out in one of the many viewing areas and snap some instaworthy pics. There are protected sidewalks for pedestrians if you decide to walk or bike across (or if you just want to venture out for better snaps). The bridge is about 1.5 miles across, so be prepared!

2. Walk down Fisherman’s Wharf (and see the sea lions!)

This historic waterfront district is home to iconic cable cars, postcard-perfect views of the bay, fresh clam chowder and sourdough bread, the famous Ghirardelli Square and more. While buying food and souvenirs isn’t free, walking along the Wharf and taking in all the sights and sounds is. Don’t forget to stop and look out over the piers to see huge groups of sea lions sunbathing!

3. Hike Coit Tower.

Ready for some incredible views of the city? Hike up to the Coit Tower (start at the Filbert Steps) and you’ll be rewarded with some stunning views—on a clear day, at least. Head’s up: there’s over 400+ stairs on your way up to the tower. (Those San Fran hills are no joke!) Once you’re there, you can go up to the top of the tower for 360-degree panoramic views of the city, but it’ll cost you about $9.

4. Drive down Lombard Street.

This ultra-curvy street is an iconic spot in San Francisco. Unfortunately, the traffic leading up the street—typically created by other tourists wanting to drive down the famous street—can create quite the wait. However, if you have time to spare, this is an iconic SF activity that you should definitely try to do at least once.

5. Hit the beach.

Easy free thing to do in San Francisco? The beach! While beaches in NorCal may be a bit chillier (and windier) than you might expect, they’re definitely worth visiting. What they may lack in terms of ideal tanning locale, they’ll easily make up for in stunning views! Ocean Beach and Marshall’s Beach are two of our favorites. Pack a picnic and head there in the evening for the best sunset-watching spots.

6. Explore Golden Gate Park.

This 1,000+ acre park in the middle of the SF is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s filled with museums, parks, gardens, waterfalls, trails and more. Head there for the afternoon for a beautiful way to explore nature without even leaving SF. Strawberry Hill and the parks across from the Botanical Gardens and Conservatory of Flowers are popular spots for walking and picnicking. Many of the museums and gardens within Golden Gate Park have free days and student discounts. Be sure to plan ahead for those if you’re interested!

7. See some of San Fran’s public art.

It’s no surprise that San Francisco is an artsy and quirky city packed with public art displays. If you want to see some great ones (and maybe snap a few pics for the ‘gram), check out the mosaic tiled staircases at Lincoln Park Steps, 16th Avenue or the Hidden Garden Steps. The Language of the Birds, Cupid’s Span, Clarion Alley and the colorful hearts around the city (like this famous one in Union Square) are also fun ones. But you could also just wander through the city (or hop on a cable car) and discover some on your own!

8. Visit the Fortune Cookie factory.

Ever wondered how they get the fortunes inside the cookies? This tiny factory, located on Ross Alley in Chinatown, will give you an inside look at how fortune cookies are made. Some estimates say that the landmark bakery produces over 10,000 fortune cookies per day! It’s free to step inside and watch the cookie making process. Sometimes there’s free samples to be had as well. Of course, you can also purchase fresh fortune cookies here—and after smelling the cookies inside, you’ll definitely want to.

9. Visit the Japanese Tea Garden.

One of the most popular things to do in Golden Gate Park, this serene tea garden is the perfect place to walk around and snap some pics. The tea house inside the gardens is worth a visit too, if you don’t mind spending a bit on tea and fortune cookies. Just keep in mind that admission to the gardens is only free if you enter by 10am on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays. Otherwise, it’s $9.

10. Get great views from Twin Peaks.

On a clear day, there’s plenty of places to get great views of the city, but this is one of the best. Plus, its one of our favorite free things to do in San Francisco. You can drive or hike to the top. (It’s a pretty easy hike, about 30 minutes – 1 hour.) Keep in mind that the parking lot at the top tends to fill up quickly. Luckily, the park doesn’t close at dusk, so it’s a great place to head up to if you want to see the city all lit up at night too.

11. Hike Land End’s Trail

Be prepared for stairs and stunning views on this 3.4 mile loop hike overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s easy enough to walk the trail in about an hour. It’s a must-do for visitors. You can find the start of the trail from the parking lot of the Sutro Baths. Wanna skip straight to the best views? Head to the Land’s End Labryinth or Land’s End Trail Eagle Point. If you’re looking for more hiking, head straight across the Golden Gate to the Marin Headlands or the Muir Woods.

Ready for your epic trip to San Francisco? There’s tons of free things to do, but we can get you a cheap flight too! Check out our cheap flights to San Francisco. Then get ready for an epic trip!

]]>6 Reasons to Head to South America for Your Next Vacayhttps://www.studentuniverse.com/blog/destinations/south-america-destinations/6-reasons-to-head-south-america?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=6-reasons-to-head-south-america
Wed, 07 Aug 2019 08:58:36 +0000https://www.studentuniverse.com/blog/?p=15879

Looking for a destination off the beaten path that will give you an epic adventure? Try pretty much anywhere in South America! Check out some of our favorite reasons to go to South America!

While most students are heading out to Europe or Australia, why not head somewhere off the beaten path and find some epic adventures? South America is a great destination to consider! Want to explore in a big city? Head to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil or Buenos Aires in Argentina. Craving adventure? Hike Machu Picchu in Peru, book a Patagonia tour or explore the Andes.

Need more convincing? Check out this list from a guest student blogger, Emily. She’s currently a junior in college and has been to South America 8+ times—and she loves it!

1. Amazing budget destinations

If you’re a student like I am and just don’t have the money for eating out everyday, spending hundreds a month on public transport or going out with friends, then fear not. Once you’ve made your way to your country of choice in South America, you will no longer have to be pinching pennies. Depending on where you end up, and certainly outside of the big cities, activities and food are a fraction of what they may cost back home. Pack light and save money! In my experience, I was able to eat both lunch and dinner out every day for a week and maybe spend $7 for a whole week of lunches! Not to mention that the food is always A+ cuisine.

2. Allll the street food

Speaking of food: it’s. all. amazing. If nothing else here is convincing, I urge you with all my might that the street food alone would be a worthwhile reason to make the trip down south. You have to try the papas rellenas, milanesa, alfajores, and, my all-time favorite: empanadas. Every morning vendors claim their street corner to prepare and sell street foods, from sweet to savory. They’ll return to the same place day after day, so after just a few outings you’ll figure out which stands are your favorites. Once you’re coming back for more, the kind vendors will start to recognize you and may even strike up a conversation.

3. The warm, kind people and community

That brings me to the next reason (and my personal favorite!). The warm and kind cultures spread across South America will make you feel right at home while you’re traveling! I never feel so immediately loved and accepted by strangers as when I visit my abuelos’ small town in Bolivia. It happens again and again in any nearby place I go to as well. The sense of community is so strong. Even though I could only communicate in broken Spanish, I made fast friends who taught me that connection goes beyond language. Warmth radiates from the smiles of people you pass on the street and in that environment you will rarely feel alone, even if you are traveling solo. Seeing the world, its people, and other cultures opens our eyes and brings us closer together.

4. Get lost in the Andes

Besides the people and the food, a huge draw to South America is the incredible terrain. The Andes mountains are spread across the western side of the continent through at least 6 countries. The famed Machu Picchu and its surrounding valley represent just a fragment of the incredible history and stunning views of the Andes! If you’re seeking adventure, there’s no doubt you’ll find it here while hiking and climbing under the hugest blue skies. Even though I’ve lived much of my life near Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, I was still blown away by the boundless and seemingly untouched landscapes in the Andes.

5. Explore unique landscapes and cities

More than mountains and forests, South America holds some amazing natural gems. The waterfalls of Iguazu lay on the border between Argentina and Brazil and make up the largest waterfall system in the world. I could literally stare at the stunning falls for hours on end! You may have to fight some tourists for the best photo spot, but the memories you’ll walk away with will be irreplaceable.

Another lesser known gem of the region is Salar de Uyuni in southern Bolivia. The largest salt flats in the world are an expansive white desert of salt. After a rain they turn into an amazing mirror that reflects the sky. The trip there will take a few days from any nearby city (La Paz or Potosi are two semi-close cities). But this just allows you to see more of the country’s incredible nature along the way! It’s honestly the experience of a lifetime.

6. Experience some local festivals!

No South America must-do list would be complete without a shout-out to the biggest festival in the world: Carnaval! Celebrated every year in the spring all over South America (and the world), the tradition goes back centuries. All week in any city there will be parades and parties, dancing, music and more delicious food than you’ll be able to eat. Of course, the largest celebration of them all occurs in the famous city of Rio, on the coast of Brazil. Plan your trip in advance to see the spectacular, world-famous Samba parade. Expect endless nights of extravagant parties and dancing—the perfect way to round out your South American adventure!

Thinking of heading to the windy city on your next trip? Hold onto your hat! Chicago has so much to offer and is truly a one-of-a-kind adventure. We’ve got 20 free things to do in Chicago for your budget. Check out the latest flight deals to Chicago, Illinois and book your dream vacation.

1. Visit the penguins at the Lincoln Park Zoo

This stunning park is home to a variety of different species and visitors come from all over the world to pet farm animals and interact with lions, tigers, and bears. Oh my! There is plenty to do and see at this park. Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest free zoos in the nation and not only has animals galore, it also has a lot of history. Definitely a must-see to add to your list of adventures to have in Chicago.

2. Overlook the city at the Signature Lounge

Want a breathtaking view overlooking the city without the cost of the iconic Willis Tower? Head over to the 875 N Michigan Observatory (formally the John Hancock Observatory) and take in beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the rest of the city from the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor for your free view. Admission is free so you might be able to buy an appetizer or drink or two. Located right along the Magnificent Mile, you’ll also get the chance to see a 360 degree view of four different states!

3. Plan a picnic at Humboldt Park

Want to spend the day with friends relaxing in the shade? Humboldt Park is the perfect place. Nestled in the heart of the Humboldt Park Community, this sprawling park takes up almost 200 acres and has so much for you to do to keep busy. There’s a field house with a fitness center, two gymnasiums, an inland beach and a historic boathouse. Throughout the year there are a number of different music festivals and events. Take a picnic with you and you’ll be set for the day!

4. Watch fireworks at Navy Pier

You can catch a fireworks show for free from Memorial Day to Labor Day every Wednesday and Saturday night at Navy Pier. You can also check out the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows which offers free entry. If you want to explore the pier during the day and early evening hours, check out the gardens, amusement rides and shops!

5. Stop by the National Museum of Mexican Art

Take a step into the past when you visit this museum. There are plenty of exhibitions to visit and stunning pieces of art by famous painters. The museum is free for visitors and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. The museum is the largest of its kind in the nation, and each year brings more than 160,000 visitors from all over the world! In fact, if you’re looking for a free museum to go to, you might find it difficult, the National Museum of Mexican Art is the only museum in Chicago that’s free to the public each day.

6. Stare in awe at the Buckingham Fountain Water Display

One of the largest in the world, this amazing fountain water display is located right in Grant Park. Visitors can witness a major water display for 20 minutes every hour starting at 9am. The fountain usually runs from early May to mid-October, so during the summer and early fall months may be the best time to visit. Take a trip at sunset for a beautiful view of the fountain and lights display against the Chicago skyline.

7. Run along the 606

At one point, this 2.7 mile stretch was a railroad that ran along the northwest side of Chicago. In 2015, the city converted it to a trail where visitors can now bike, walk or run across the old railroad. Similar to the High Line in New York City, this trail also has various pieces of art that locals have created for the park. There are multiple access ramps along the route so that you can wander off and explore different parts of the city.

8. Take a tour of the Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago cultural center gives visitors the chance to look at free art exhibits, music and dance performances. There are weekly building tours held at 1:15 pm from Wednesday to Saturday that dive into the history of the building as well as a focus on the stunning stained-glass dome. The dome is the largest Tiffany dome in the world and brings in visitors from all over to look at the stunning glass. If you’re looking to explore even further, you can check out the Pedway which is an underground pedestrian walkway system that connects buildings all over Chicago.

9. Walk the streets of Chicago on a free tour

If you’re trying to see all of Chicago at once, this is the way to do it. Chicago Greeter tours are one of the most highly rated things you can do in Chicago, and for good reason. Not only will you learn a lot about the history of Chicago, you’ll also be able to see all the local spots and restaurant recommendations for later in your trip. Chicago Greeters are led by local people and are free to go on.

10. Visit the gardens at Garfield Park Conservatory

Take a day trip to this stunning conservatory and you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants from all over the world. It is one of the largest botanical gardens in the U.S. and it’s completely free to visit! There are more than 10 acres of outdoor gardens so it’s a great place to go if you need a break from the city life. Programs and events are also held at the conservatory throughout the year.

11. Make buttons at the Busy Beaver Button Museum

If you’re looking for some thing unique to do while you’re in Chicago, head to the Busy Beaver Button Museum. This quirky museum is the only pin-back button museum in the world and has over 30,000 pins! It is free and open to the public Monday – Friday from 10 am to 4 pm. If you want to, you can also stop by their store online or in person and create your very own button to wear.

12. Stop by the City Gallery at the Historic Water Tower

Looking to learn a little bit more about the history of Chicago? Stop by the City Gallery and check out beautiful photos of Chicago taken by local photographers. The gallery is in the Historic Water Tower which is known for being one of a few buildings left standing after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Visitors can view the beautiful architecture of the old building as well as take a peak at some amazing art.

13. Look out at the Chicago skyline at Promontory Point

To see one of the best views of Chicago, head to Promontory Point. This man-made peninsula juts out into Lake Michigan and offers a brilliant view of the Chicago skyline. Located in Burnham Park, this stretch of land is an oasis away from the city and a great spot for Instagram pics. Pro tip: Head to the waterfront early in the morning so you can beat some of the crowds that arrive during the day.

14. Go on a walking tour of the Chicago Riverwalk

After an evening dinner at one of Chicago’s many restaurants, take a walk along the beautiful Chicago Riverwalk. The river stretches all the way from downtown to Lake Michigan. On Sundays, you can tour the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum for free. The Riverwalk is always bustling with people going in and out of little shops lining the streets, and it’s a great place to go if you need somewhere to spend the afternoon.

15. Tour the Smart Museum of Art

Check out the Smart Museum of Art which showcases over 15,000 pieces of art. The gallery is open every day of the week beside Monday and is always free to the public. The Smart Museum is a part of the University of Chicago and is located right in historic Hyde Park. With various collections of Asian, European and modern art, you’ll find yourself spending the day wandering through the museum in awe of all there is to see.

16. Take a bike ride on Lakefront Trail

Grab your bike, walk or run along the beautiful Lakefront Trail which stretches along 18 miles of Lake Michigan. On your journey, you’ll pass a number of different parks including Hyde Park and Lincoln Park. There are also gardens, playgrounds and concession stands. Visitors like walking along this stretch because there is plenty to stop and do all while taking in a glimpse of Chicago’s skyline.

17. Play arcade games at Replay Lincoln Park

Looking for a fun night of games? Head over to Replay Lincoln Park, an arcade bar full of vintage arcade games and pinball. Although you’ll have to pay for drinks if you want them, the games are completely free! They also hold various events throughout the year with discounted drinks, themed game nights and prizes to win. Definitely a great place to head to after a long day of touring the city!

18. Grab a book at the Harold Washington Library Center

Head to this massive library if you happen to be in Chicago on a rainy day. Open every day of the week and free to the public, this library can keep visitors busy for hours. Take a walk up to the 3rd floor and visit the award-winning Maker Lab. This lab allows visitors to take free workshops and drop-in demonstrations. There are also free music practice rooms with pianos and printed music.

19. Listen to live music at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion

If you’re visiting Chicago this summer, you’ll definitely want to grab a blanket and head over to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. From June to August, there are a wide variety of concerts that happen throughout the week. Usually held in the evening hours, it’s a great place to go and relax after a long day touring the streets of Chicago. Did we mention it’s free? The Pavilion is open daily from 6 am to 11 pm and concerts welcome to everyone who stops by.

20. Take selfies with the Bean at Millennium Park

Picture by: Jenn Meals

Last, but certainly not least: The Bean. One of the most touristy things you can do in Chicago. Take a few selfies at Cloud Gate and you’ll have memories of Chicago forever. This cool sculpture shows various reflections of the city and is a tourist hot spot. If you’re looking to take the best pics, try going in the early morning when there aren’t as many people. Millennium Park also has a variety of gardens and even a skating rink.

Chicago is the place to be with so many parks and free attractions to explore, it’s hard not to fall in love with this city. Planning on staying in this beautiful city? Check out the latest hotel deals in Chi-town for your vacation.